The days can seem long when you’re caring for a little one, and finding ways to fill the hours can be daunting. But sometimes, the best ideas are right on our doorstep if you know where to look.
Tots Together Tuesdays is a free event aimed at babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their carers, held weekly at the indoor playground at South Village.
From 10am, the turfed play area comes to life with a new theme every week, from toy based play to singing and dancing there is always something to keep your little one entertained. I visited this week with my little one who has just turned one to experience it firsthand.
When I arrived, the playground was already humming with loud, upbeat music and young kids – from newborns to preschoolers – and their mums, dads, grandparents and carers. A circle quickly formed underneath a rainbow coloured parachute as the kids tried their best to keep balls from falling through a hole. This set an energy level that sustained for the next hour.
A space theme soon emerged as two enthusiastic Jane Jetson lookalikes (our space-age hosts) introduced the next game: ‘crater catch’ – jumping into an LED hula hoop and throwing a fluffy ball (great for the preschoolers). The hosts kept energy levels high for the duration of the show and I even noticed one of them managing to weave some Auslan into their conversations with the preschoolers.
Next up was storytime with an educational book about the solar system, visually supported by an impressive rocket ship nearby. Curious hands soon got the better of some of the kids who were quickly dismantling the rocket and kindly sharing the pieces with the audience.
The area is big enough to accomodate prams and for little ones to roam. Aside from the free entertainment, the playground also has a mini slide and tunnel (best for toddlers and preschoolers) and some small mounds for the littlest ones to crawl over.
The playground is very close to the Biddy Giles Park entrance which means that it can feel a bit nippy in the colder months although I suppose most parents would agree there is nothing wrong with a bit of fresh air these days!
Our fun was cut short only by an ill-timed poonami (is there ever a good time?), but thanks to the conveniently placed baby changing facilities right next to the playground, we avoided any serious embarrassment!
Overall, I thought Tots Together Tuesdays was a really great sensory experience for younger kids and probably a welcome distraction for their carers, who it appeared were using it as a chance to reconnect with others, and enjoy their first, but probably not last, coffee of the day.
3 reasons to visit Tots Together Tuesdays:
Free coffee
The good guys at South Village will shout you a free coffee just for turning up! For more information, visit https://www.southvillage.com.au/whats-on/offers/enjoy-a-coffee-on-us
Free entertainment
Less screen time, more scream time! Let someone else entertain your kids for free.
Convenience
Get your weekly shopping done during the same trip. With ample parking, a visit to South Village on Tuesday is a no-brainer.
When: Every Tuesday, 10am – 1pm
Where: Indoor Playground, South Village, Kirrawee
Cost: Free
For more information, visit https://www.southvillage.com.au/whats-on/events/tots-together-tuesday
